As of April 2021, foreign trucks entering Saudi Arabia will be required to have electronic documentation. This new requirement is part of the kingdom’s efforts to modernize and streamline its customs procedures. While this change may pose some initial challenges to international trucking companies, it ultimately aims to make the logistics process more efficient and improve the flow of goods in and out of the country. In this article, we will explore the details of this new regulation and its potential impact on trucking companies and the Saudi Arabian economy.
Starting from April 1, 2023, all foreign trucks entering Saudi Arabia must present an electronic transit document containing details about the sender and recipient of the shipment, trip itinerary, and route. This announcement was made by the Saudi Transport General Authority in a press statement issued on March 25.
The move is aimed at supporting the local transportation and logistic services sector by ensuring fair competition and enhancing the investment environment. In addition, the new regulations are designed to improve the safety levels for cargo services operating within the kingdom.
According to the regulations, cargo transport within the kingdom is restricted to the national carrier as per the accredited transport mechanism. Non-Saudi companies are prohibited from carrying out transport operations within the country, which further supports the local transportation and logistic services sector.
The new regulations come as part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to modernize and streamline its transport and logistics sector. The kingdom has been investing heavily in improving its infrastructure, including building new highways, ports, and airports.
The new electronic transit document requirement is expected to provide greater transparency and accountability in the transport and logistics sector. It will allow Saudi authorities to monitor the movement of goods and ensure that they are transported safely and efficiently.
Moreover, the new regulations are also set to provide a level playing field for local and international companies operating in the transport and logistics sector. This will help create a fair and competitive environment that fosters innovation and growth.
The move is welcomed by the logistics industry in Saudi Arabia, as it is expected to drive the sector’s growth and increase investment and employment opportunities. The sector has been one of the vital areas of the Saudi Vision 2030 program, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and reduce its dependence on oil.
The kingdom is already home to several major logistics companies, including Saudi Post, DHL, and Aramex. The new electronic transit document requirement is expected to attract more companies to the country, bolstering the sector further.
Overall, the new regulations for foreign trucks entering Saudi Arabia from April 1, 2023, are a significant step towards modernizing and streamlining the transport and logistics sector. The move is expected to support the local transportation and logistic services sector, improve safety levels, and create a level playing field for local and international companies.
